Why is the Aegean Sea cooler than the Mediterranean: 5 main reasons

Many who come to the coast of Bodrum, Cesme or Kusadasi for the first time,
are surprised — why the water here seems cooler than, for example, in Antalya.
The answer is simple: the Aegean Sea is different in its nature.
It is deeper, more northerly and lives according to its own laws of nature.

1. Depth and features of water exchange

The Aegean Sea is one of the deepest seas in the region,
its maximum depth reaches more than 2500 meters.

Cold waters rise from the depths,
creating a constant natural mixing,
which makes the surface warm up slower than in the shallower and more enclosed Mediterranean Sea.

2. Northern winds — Meltemi (Etesian winds)

From the end of May to September over the Aegean Sea
characteristic northern winds Meltemi blow.

They bring coolness from the mainland,
soften the summer heat and create that very fresh Bodrum breeze,
which everyone loves so much.

But because of these winds, the water temperature in the northern regions
(for example, near the islands of Lesvos, Chios or Samos)
may be several degrees lower than in the south.

3. Inflow of cold water from the Black Sea

Through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits into the Aegean Sea
water from the Black Sea gets — they are less salty and cooler.
This natural «influx of freshness» makes the water in the Aegean region
more transparent and cleaner, but at the same time — a little cool.

4. Northern location and mild climate

The Aegean coast of Turkey is located north of the Mediterranean.
Here the sun warms softer,
and the number of sunny hours per year is slightly less than in Antalya or Alanya.

For vacationers, this is a plus:
the heat is easier to bear, the air is drier, and the evenings are cool.
But the sea heats up because of this 2–3 degrees less.

5. Average water temperature

In the north of the Aegean Sea, the water can drop to 20–21 °C,
and in the south (in the Bodrum and Datca area) — reaches a comfortable 24–25 °C.

Why it's good

A cool sea is not a disadvantage, but an advantage.
Thanks to the winds and the purity of the waters:

• the water here is more transparent than in the Mediterranean Sea;

• fewer jellyfish and water blooms;

• the climate is dry and light, ideal for living and long walks;

• the heat is tolerated much more comfortably.

The Aegean Sea is not about heat, but about balance.
It is fresh, calm, with a mild climate and surprisingly clean water.
That is why cities such as Bodrum, Cesme and Datca,
are considered the best places not only for recreation, but also for life.

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